Tiberias Optimistic About Strong Showing Against Maccabi Haifa

Hapoel Ironi Tiberias is heading into their Saturday match against Maccabi Haifa with optimism, aiming to continue their strong start to the season. The team, widely predicted to be relegated, is drawing encouragement from their early success. Midfielder Daniel Golani, on loan from Maccabi Haifa, is set to return to the starting lineup, replacing Ari Cohen. Guy Sankar will move from left to right winger, with Mansour Badji shifting to midfield. Bar Cohen, who missed the last game due to suspension, will rejoin the squad, and striker Artur Miranyan is expected to feature again after his debut.

Despite acknowledging Maccabi Haifa's strength and momentum, particularly at their home stadium, Sami Ofer, Tiberias's coach Alon Ziv expressed confidence in his team's ability to perform. "We are not just coming to defend," Ziv stated, emphasizing the team's intention to showcase their qualities, play their style of football, and create scoring opportunities. He believes that if they execute their game plan effectively, they can achieve a positive result.

Defender Ziv Morgan echoed the coach's sentiments, stressing the need for increased concentration, commitment, and tactical discipline against a high-quality opponent like Maccabi Haifa. He acknowledged that any mistake could be significant. However, Morgan also highlighted the team's own ambition, stating, "We come to every game to win, and that doesn't change because of the opponent or the stadium." He expressed belief in the team's heart, motivation, and ability to fight for a victory.

A projected starting lineup for Tiberias includes Idan Sharon in goal, a defense of Guy Sankar, Ron Unger, Ondrej Baco, and Ziv Morgan, with Daniel Golani and Chris Kaukou in midfield. The attacking trio is expected to be Eden Shamir, Nanna Gambel, and Keis Ghanem, with Mansour Badji also in the midfield. Arthur Miranyan is also expected to get playing time.